Essential Dog Grooming Tools For Professionals

Having a grooming regimen for your canine buddy is, in fact, one of the essential aspects of responsible dog parenting. It presents an opportunity to bond with your pup, but their overall health will also improve. In addition, regularly brushing your dog’s hair can help rid little tangles before they grow into a matted mess. 

In addition to extending the lifespan of your carpets and furnishings, proper nail trimming will help your dog stay healthy by preventing joint diseases like canine arthritis. Also, baths help eliminate the dust, grime, bacteria, fungi, and viruses that could accumulate on your dog’s fur. 

It’s important to note that your dog’s grooming largely depends on the breed. For example, compared to short-haired breeds, long-haired and double-coated dogs require significantly more fur combing and coat maintenance, and dogs with floppy, furry ears need more frequent ear cleanings. Thus, learn about the requirements and standards specific to your dog’s breed before investing in tools for at-home grooming.

As crucial as dog grooming is, its recurring nature can be a bother from time to time, particularly for busy dog parents. Given that, this has contributed to the need for professional groomers. Besides, the artistic exploits that professional dog groomers put in their work regularly are beyond the abilities of most people. They have an array of equipment, including clippers, brushes, and shears, that are safe and appropriate for every coat type. In addition, professional groomers can spot illnesses, skin infections, and allergies in their early stages, given their anatomy and dog health expertise.

Different dogs have different grooming needs. However, some tools are must-haves for every breed type. Here are the top essential dog grooming tools for professional use. 

A-Z Animals Top Picks for Dog Grooming Tools for Professionals

#1 Best Overall: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

Our selection as the best overall grooming tool for professionals is the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush.

This brush is an excellent option for removing debris from the fur as well as for detangling knots. It’s easy to clean, versatile, and leaves a pup’s coat healthy and beautiful. It features incredibly thin, angled bristles that can burrow deep into your pet’s coat to grab as much loose fur as possible. Although the wires may reach deep inside your dog’s hair, they are very delicate. Because of this, your dog won’t feel anxious about grooming time. It also has an ergonomic handle which means that it’s comfortable for you too.

Unfortunately, some reviewers mentioned that their pets didn’t like bristles as they are quite firm.

Pros and Cons of the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best Overall

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog & Cat Slicker Brush

• Easy to untangle and loosen hairs
• Features a self-cleaning mode
• 100% satisfaction guarantee
• Gently penetrates thick hair

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2. Best Pin Brush: Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush

Our selection as the best pin brush is the Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush.

This brush is a fantastic choice for professionals who don’t mind investing in a reliable, practical, attractive grooming product. It was designed to be gentle on delicate coats. It’s also comfortable to hold, thanks to its lightweight and ergonomic beech wood handle. 

The pins have polished and round tips to make them comfortable for dogs, and they come in various lengths, such as 20mm, 27mm, and 35mm. It’s recommended to use 20mm for short coats, 27mm for medium-length to long coats, and 35mm for long, thick full coats.

The only drawback to this brush is that it is quite expensive.

Pros and Cons of the Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush

Best Pin Brush

Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush

• Comfortable to hold
• Designed to be gentle on delicate coats
• Great, practical choice for professionals

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3. Best Metal Comb: Andis Pet Steel Comb

A good metal comb is always an essential tool for professional groomers, and the best option is the Andis Pet Steel Comb.

This comb is lightweight and easy to use. It has two sides and you can use the wider side to untangle knots, while the more delicate side is suited for thin coats and sensitive parts of the pup’s body.

This comb is made of rust-proof stainless steel, which makes it more durable than plastic combs, and it helps to uncover tiny areas where dead hair has clumped together. However, while it’s best to comb through the hair, not just the top of the coat, from the skin to the tips.

Unfortunately, some customers reported that the teeth are not particularly strong as they can bend if they catch in long hair or tangles.

Pros and Cons of the Andis Pet Steel Comb

Best Metal Comb

Andis Steel Pet Comb

• Good for dogs of all sizes
• Rust-proof, stainless steel
• Great for untangling mats

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4. Best Dog Shampoo: Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Fragrance Free Dog Shampoo

No matter how clean a pooch is, it will eventually require a bath. Therefore, the best shampoo to use is the Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Fragrance Free Dog Shampoo.

As a professional groomer, you should know that some dogs react differently to shampoo. Therefore, ensure you pick the mildest shampoo. This shampoo is suitable for dogs and cats aged six weeks and over. It is free from parabens, DEA, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, and artificial colors. It is also 100% biodegradable.

Unfortunately, a small number of customers reported that this shampoo made their pets itchy.

Pros and Cons of the Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Fragrance Free Dog Shampoo

Best Dog Shampoo

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Fragrance Free Dog & Cat Shampoo

• Specially formulated for dry, itchy, and sensitive skin
• Soap-free oatmeal and aloe formula
• Doesn't wash off topical flea applications
• Re-moisturize, heal, and soothe dry and scratched skin

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5. Best Dog Nail Clipper: Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs

Keeping a dog’s nails trimmed is an essential aspect of grooming, so we recommend the Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs.

This product makes trimming nails a lot easier for you and the dog as it has a double-bladed cutter for a quick and easy cut. Plus, it is made from high-quality stainless steel which is durable and resistant to rust. It also has an ergonomic, non-slip handle which provides a comfortable and secure grip.

The only drawback to this product is that it may be a little small for trimming the nails on larger dogs.

Pros and Cons of the Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs

Best Dog Nail Clipper

Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs

• Great for medium to large-sized dogs
• Can be used with either hand
• Edge stays sharp for a long time; dependable

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6. Best Dog Wipes: Nature’s Miracle Deodorizing Dog Bath Wipes

We all know that dogs love to get themselves into sticky or stinky situations. Therefore, we recommend Nature’s Miracle Deodorizing Dog Bath Wipes to help get your pup smelling fresh again.

These alcohol-free wipes have a mild formula that is safe for everyday use. They contain moisturizing conditioners which are perfect for enriching your pet’s skin and coat. These wipes are able to eliminate even tough, stinky smells from your pup, and are ideal as a quick touch-up between baths.

Unfortunately, some customers reported that they have a strong scent which can be overpowering.

Pros and Cons of Nature’s Miracle Deodorizing Dog Bath Wipes

Best Dog Wipes

Nature's Miracle Fresh & Clean Deodorizing Dog Bath Wipes

• Alcohol-free product that can moisturize a dog's coat and make it shine
• Also useful as a fast cleanup between baths
• Not ideal for dogs with sensitive skin

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Choosing the Best: What to Look For

There are several factors that you should consider when choosing professional grooming tools. Let’s take a closer look below.

Coat Type

For many grooming tools, the purchases you make depend on the different coat types. For instance, as a professional groomer, you want to buy an array of brushes that suit other dogs, from short, medium, to long-haired.

Quality

You can’t compromise on quality. You’re poised to serve your customers better and enjoy repeat patronage when you use good quality products.